Ashford Castle, Cong, County Mayo

$$$$

This 13th-century castleonce a Guinness family homehas "idyllic, expansive" grounds with manicured gardens near the River Cong. While guest rooms "could use some renovation," public areas are "out of a museum." Dinners of County Mayo lamb and shellfish at George V require a jacket and tie and are "phenomenal and plentiful." Nearby Lough Corrib has fine salmon- and trout-fishing, while on-site falconry is "an unexpected highlight."

(83 rooms)

Also featured on the: Gold List for 2005, Gold List for 2006, Gold List for 2007, Gold List for 2008, Gold List for 2009, Gold List for 2011